Our Opinion: State workers give generously

News Tribune editorial

And now, to paraphrase broadcaster Paul Harvey, the charitable rest of the story.

In recent weeks, news stories have reported on the Legislature’s passage of a 1 percent state employee pay raise and extension of the Joint Interim Committee on State Employee Wages.

Those stories focused on compensation.

The rest of the story, charitable contributions by state employees, was contained in a news release Thursday from the state Office of Administration (OA).

The State Employee Charitable Campaign for 2014 not only exceeded $1 million, according to OA, it did so for the 10th consecutive year.

Specifically, state employees donated $1,059,000 during the most recent campaign to aid 922 Missouri charities.

“Year after year Missouri state employees offer an outpouring of support, compassion and giving to those in need through the annual charitable campaign,” said OA Commissioner Doug Nelson. “The success is a testament to their generosity, and I am so proud that over the last decade our employees have pledged more than $10 million to organizations across the state of Missouri.”

The campaign is organized by OA to allow state employees to contribute to charitable organizations through payroll deduction or one-time gifts. More about the State Employee Charitable Campaign can be found at the website, www.msecc.mo.gov.

During its 29-year history, the campaign has raised more than $26 million for charity.

Some state employee groups organize challenges or activities that combine charitable giving with camaraderie and fun.

Missouri’s state employees deserve to be rewarded for their work. They also deserve to be acknowledged for their compassion and generosity.

Donating in excess of $1 million annually for 10 consecutive years is a commendable achievement and a part of the story that deserves to be told.